CHERRY HILL, N.J. (CBS) – The Hearts of Camden- a group dedicated to redeveloping the City of Camden – honored South Jersey native Jon Bon Jovi on Friday for his work in helping to revitalize the area.

You take the home from the boy, but not the boy from his home. And home he came. The Jersey-born rock star received a standing ovation as he accepted the “Small Things, Great Love Award” for helping to provide housing for the people of Camden.

“Government can’t do it alone. Non-profits can’t do it alone. Residents and rock stars can’t do it alone. But I believe with the “power of we,” we can make a difference.”

The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation has helped build affordable housing in East and South Camden and assisted in numerous other projects throughout the city.

Nearly 700 people attended the sold out gala at the Crowne Plaza in Cherry Hill. The group says the event will raise an estimated $300,000.